Trick

Trick is a word with several related meanings. As a noun, it can denote a cunning act designed to deceive or outwit someone, a clever device or method, or a prank. As a verb, it means to deceive or mislead someone, often playfully or deceptively. The term has origins in Middle English and Old Germanic languages, and it is used across many contexts to describe cleverness, deception, or performance.

In entertainment, a trick usually refers to a magic trick—a performance in which the illusionist uses sleight of hand, misdirection, and props to create the appearance of impossible feats.

In games and sports, a trick can be a deceptive move or a calculated strategy. In trick-taking card games such as bridge, hearts, or spades, a trick is a single round where players play a card and the highest wins. In other contexts, "trick play" and "trick shot" describe deceptive or flashy maneuvers.

In Halloween tradition, trick-or-treating involves children going from door to door asking for candy, with the phrase "trick or treat" referencing a playful mischief that might be performed if no treat is offered.